Disney+ is amplifying its efforts to dominate the K-drama market with a stellar lineup of original South Korean series for 2025. Riding high on the successes of 2024 hits like The Judge from Hell, Gangnam B-side, and A Shop for Killers, the streaming giant has unveiled a slate packed with A-list talent and ambitious narratives. This announcement was made on November 21 during the second day of the Disney Content Showcase APAC 2024 in Singapore, reaffirming Disney+’s commitment to offering top-tier Korean content.
Disney+ 2025: A Star-Studded Slate
The upcoming lineup for 2025 introduces a mix of high-profile projects designed to appeal to both local and international audiences. These include:
- The Murky Stream
Starring Rowoon (Destined with You) and Shin Ye-eun (The Glory), this drama is set to explore dark and complex themes. The chemistry between these two rising stars promises a captivating watch as they navigate a world filled with secrets and moral dilemmas. - The Manipulated
Featuring Ji Chang-wook (Healer) and Doh Kyung-soo (EXO’s D.O.), this psychological thriller delves into themes of manipulation and betrayal, offering an edge-of-your-seat experience. With Ji’s expertise in action dramas and Doh’s versatility as an actor, the series is expected to make waves. - Tempest
This highly anticipated project brings together Jun Ji-hyun (Kingdom), Gang Dong-won (Broker), and John Cho (Cowboy Bebop). Blending mystery, action, and human drama, Tempest stands out as one of the most ambitious titles in the 2025 slate, leveraging its international appeal with a multicultural cast. - Made in Korea
Starring Hyun Bin (Crash Landing on You) and Jung Woo-sung (A Man of Reason), this series is poised to delve into themes of identity, tradition, and personal transformation. Both stars are known for their commanding screen presence, setting high expectations for this drama.
Moving: A Phenomenal Return
Building on its monumental success, Disney+ confirmed the development of Moving Season Two, further cementing its partnership with acclaimed creator Kangfull. First released in 2023, Moving became a global sensation, dominating Disney+ charts and earning accolades for its unique take on the superhero genre. The series has won over ten prestigious awards to date and continues to grow its fanbase.
The new season is expected to expand the show’s rich universe of enhanced individuals, exploring deeper character arcs and delivering more heart-pounding action. Given the success of the first season, the anticipation for Season Two is sky-high.
Iconic Stars and More Exciting Projects
In addition to these marquee titles, Disney+ is also introducing dramas featuring widely adored actors Kim Soo-hyun (One Ordinary Day) and Kim Hye-soo (Juvenile Justice). These projects are expected to bring their distinct star power to the platform, drawing in a diverse audience.
During the showcase, cast members from other 2025 titles like Light Shop, Unmasked, Hyper Knife, Knock-Off, Nine Puzzles, and Low Life made appearances to tease their respective series. Their discussions offered insights into the creative directions of these projects, which range from suspenseful thrillers to heartwarming dramas.
A Strategic Push into Korean Originals
Disney+’s dedication to Korean content underscores its broader strategy to compete with global streaming giants like Netflix and regional platforms such as TVING and Wavve. By investing in high-budget productions, enlisting top-tier talent, and focusing on globally resonant stories, Disney+ is establishing itself as a premier destination for K-drama enthusiasts.
This aggressive push is not just about entertainment; it’s a calculated move to solidify Disney+ as a key player in the international streaming market. With South Korea’s entertainment industry being a global cultural force, Disney+ is leveraging the popularity of K-dramas to attract subscribers worldwide.
What Sets Disney+ Apart?
Unlike its competitors, Disney+ combines its local Korean offerings with its vast library of global content, creating a unique blend of entertainment that appeals to a wide demographic. The 2025 slate reflects this approach, with a mix of local storytelling enriched by international collaborations.
Titles like Tempest and Made in Korea highlight Disney+’s efforts to create content with universal themes, while series like The Murky Stream and The Manipulated cater to fans of traditional K-drama narratives with a fresh twist.
Disney+ in 2025: A Year to Watch
As 2025 approaches, Disney+ is gearing up to redefine the Korean drama experience for viewers worldwide. With an impressive array of star-studded series, groundbreaking narratives, and a proven track record of success, the platform is well-positioned to dominate the OTT landscape.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of K-dramas or a newcomer to the genre, Disney+’s 2025 lineup promises something for everyone, ensuring another exciting year of unforgettable storytelling.
